Your In-Principal Approval (IPA) is your ticket to Singapore. Before you board that flight, verify every detail. Here's how.
What is an IPA?
An IPA is an In-Principal Approval — not the actual work pass, but approval in principle to get one. It contains critical details that MUST match your actual offer.
Step-by-Step Verification
Get Your IPA from Employer
Ask your employer to send the IPA document as a PDF or image. Don't leave Singapore without it.
Check Your Name
Your name on the IPA must match your passport EXACTLY — including spelling, initials, and name order. Any difference means problems.
Verify Employer Name
The company name on IPA must match what you were told. Research the company on ACRA BizFile to confirm it exists.
Confirm Job Title
The job title must be exactly what you accepted. "Kitchen helper" is NOT the same as "Cook."
Check Salary Amount
The salary on IPA must match your offer letter. Don't accept "it will be adjusted later."
Verify Pass Validity
Check the start and end dates. Make sure the duration matches what was promised (1 year or 2 years).
- Any detail doesn't match what was promised
- Employer asks you to sign a different contract
- Salary is lower than discussed
- You feel pressured to "just come first"
What to Do If You Find Errors
Don't fly. Contact your employer immediately and ask them to correct the IPA with MOM. If they refuse or delay, call MOM Helpline 6438 5122 for advice before traveling.